Carrie Bonk

Stuffed Acorn Squash because it beautifully combines comfort, nourishment, hospitality, and creativity in one meal. The sweet roasted squash paired with savory sausage or chicken, earthy sage, wild rice or quinoa, crunchy walnuts, tart cranberries, and creamy goat cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. I love that it can also be adapted for vegan or vegetarian guests, making everyone feel welcomed at the table. This dish invites people to slow down and feel cared for.

My culinary inspiration is Julia Child and my Aunt Judy. Julia’s joy for cooking was contagious and you could see the delight in her expression, and she made others believe they could cook too. My Aunt Judy, a caterer, taught me not just how to cook, but how to love people through food. She showed me the beauty of gathering around a table where people slow down, listen, connect, and care for one another. That spirit of hospitality inspires every meal I create.

I would use the $25,000 as a down payment to purchase my own retreat center where people could unplug from the stress of the world and be renewed in body, mind, and spirit. Guests would enjoy clean, healthy, and delicious meals that inspire the joy of cooking and gathering around the table. I see this as an opportunity to restore the importance of families truly connecting eye-to-eye again and slowing down to care for one another.